Does Your Workplace Encourage Inclusion?

By: Recruiting Specialist

Employers have many issues they have to tackle, especially in today's global workforce; however, one of the most important today may be developing a strategy that promotes inclusion. What is inclusion? Workplace inclusion encompasses any company mandate or policy that promotes diversity and equality. How do you go about creating this type of atmosphere and why should you even consider devoting the energy to doing so?

It may sound simplistic, but it’s a basic premise: when you develop a rich, multicultural workforce you are demonstrating to each employee – not to mention your business partners that they are a valuable asset, regardless of gender, race, to age or physical disability. But how do you accomplish this and succeed? Our experts outline some useful tips that you may want to consider.

First and most important, all businesses need to develop a diversity plan to comply with Equal Opportunity Employment mandates. As base as it sounds, all employers need to develop a protocol that ensures equal treatment of individuals in the workforce as dictated by law.

The first step in this process is through hiring. Business and hiring managers should be committed to creating an inclusive environment. Support and resources should be provided to recruit, retain and develop hiring best–practices that source and maintain a diverse workforce.

Equally as important, diversity initiatives should also provide ample opportunity for all employers – existing and prospective – that ensure they are able to participate in all business initiatives. This means you should develop and include all employees in programs from benefits – basic and otherwise, training sessions and seminars to promotional opportunities and social activities.

Along with this, you should also take a look at your entire workforce and ensure that your business – and office itself – meets their needs. With this month being National Disability Employment Awareness Month, for instance, it is important to remember accessibility issues for disabled workers.

While promoting an inclusive work–culture is a necessity today, it can also manifest into a huge benefit by motivating your workforce, making them feel valued and included and ultimately more productive.